Rebel Summer: A Book Review

A new, cute romance from Cindy Steel! I love the small island setting with everyone knowing everyone, the fun outdoor activities, and all the summer vibes. The characters themselves have depth too. Dax and Ivy each have some past trauma they haven't fully gotten over, and I love that Cindy Steel used this to bring the two of them together. Give me all the supportive, cute relationships! 

This book has a fun and unique plot too. It seemed a little too silly to me sometimes, but that may be the serious realist in me. But I won't deny that it held my attention. I think this book is the perfect beach read—not too serious, but something you can easily sit and enjoy.

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 4
Character Development: 4
Overall: 4

Thank you, Cindy Steel, for the arc!
Releases July 31, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: parent manipulation, sibling abandonment, mild sexual assault, kisses

Beneath These Cursed Stars: A Book Review

Absolutely loved being back in this world after the previous duology. It's such an immersive and expansive universe with lots of fae/human places to explore. And I loved that this time we could experience everything through Brie's sister, Jasalyn. She definitely deserved her own story after what she went through in the previous duology! Jasalyn is a character you instantly want to root for after all her trauma and subsequent mental health challenges. She has her own quiet strength that you see blossom through the story. I can't wait to find out even more about her in the sequel to this!

There are plenty of big reveals in this book, and even a new POV with Felicity and her hidden identity romance with Misha. I did get frustrated with how long the hidden identity went on, but overall the book kept me entertained, and of course left me on a cliffhanger. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 4
Character Development: 4
Overall: 4

Thank you, HarperTeen, for the arc!
Releases July 30, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: past torture and trauma, mild violence and murder, one vague open door scene

Summer in the Highlands: A Book Review

This collection of romantic short stories was an utter DELIGHT to read. I was instantly transported to beautiful Scotland with such atmospheric descriptions of the landscape and its people. It was the perfect setting for romance!

What I love most about these stories is the characters. They all have such incredible growth. The authors all did a commendable job giving us a full romance and deep character growth with how short the stories are! I feel attached to all the couples and their stories. Each romance felt unique to me, and once I started each story I had trouble putting it down again. This collection is truly perfection, and one I will be recommending for years!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5

Thank you, Nichole Van, for the arc!
Releases June 25, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: war violence and injury, mild injury, parent deaths, mild physical abuse, closed door

Knitting Books Feature

Today I’m highlighting some recent pattern books I got! Be sure to check these out if you’re interested.

LOVELY LACE KNITS
The beautiful lace patterns in this book feel timeless and classy. There’s a good variety of projects: hats, shawls, scarves, sweaters, etc. All patterns are size inclusive and are clearly written out! And I love how the book is organized into unique categories: nature-inspired textures, fuzzy and dainty designs, romantic patterns, and joyful designs.

KNIT SHAWLS & WRAPS IN 1 WEEK
The patterns in this book are expertly organized by season, and it even has a section on cowls. This book feels comprehensive with its variety of patterns! I think shawl knitters will find every pattern and technique they need in this book.

THE NORDIC KNITTING PRIMER
Every single pattern is stunning in this book. And I love how it has a colorwork 101 section at the beginning, so even beginners can learn everything they need to before they begin. Even the book is organized from beginner to master, so this book appeals to a wide skill set! All patterns are size inclusive, and several have step-by-step pictures of techniques needed.

Thank you, Page Street Publishing, for these review copies!

Beneath a Crescent Shadow: A Book Review

What really drew me into this book is its medieval Serbian setting. The story is rich with historical details, and I was fascinated with the culture and politics of the time. Add in marriage of convenience? I'm a goner. I loved the circumstances that brought Konstantin and Suzana together, and their relationship is so sweet as it develops. There's great tension in the first half of the story with an attempted-murder mystery and Suzana overcoming the trauma of her past. 

However, the last half fell a little flat for me. The romantic tension dropped off pretty immediately after the midway point, and that left Konstantin to make some self-sabotaging decisions. In short, I had no patience for his stupidity. The ending does have a good climax though, and the story ends well. I like the set up for Sowards's next book with Ivan. I'll definitely give it a chance!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 3
Character Development: 3
Overall: 3

Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the arc!
Releases June 4, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: past child abuse, past and present (off page) sexual assault, attempted murder, violence and death, kidnapping

The Rom-Commers: A Book Review

There's something in Katherine Center's romcoms that makes me devour them SO fast. The Rom-Commers was no different! I binged this so hard. I never wanted to stop reading it, and even when I had to stop reading, I thought about the characters constantly. I adored this story and its characters.

I loved the setup of two screenwriters writing a romcom together and falling in love along the way! It made for a unique story and the perfect excuse for forced proximity. The two main characters were so vibrant in my mind. I appreciated Emma's wild red hair and her witty, dependable personality. I had a soft spot for Charlie's grumpy but kind demeanor. And I loved the journey they took together discovering what love looked like for them. 

As expected for Katherine Center's book, this book dealt with some tough themes. Emma and Charlie went through some really hard times. But that's what I love about Center's romcoms. The banter and chemistry was delicious, but it was made even more special though the hard times the characters overcame. And while I had some issues with the ending (no spoilers here), I really appreciated this story and would absolutely recommend!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 4.5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5

Thank you, St. Martin's Press, for the arc!
Releases June 11, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: death of a parent (recounted), chronic injury, care-taking, cancer (recounted), kisses, near drowning

Romancing the Grump: A Book Review

This romance is so sweet! Jenny Proctor is quickly making herself a queen in the sweet hockey romcom genre with her Appies character series. This book has all the romcom tropes readers love:

- a soft-hearted grump male main character

- a workplace romance

- fake dating

- one bed

- caretaking during sickness

But most of all, I love the communication with the two main characters. There's tons of banter both in person and over text, and they also have some sweet, heartfelt conversations. They are honest with each other, which always makes me love a romance book more. 

My only critiques are that I wanted a bit more tension, maybe in the female main character development or in the side plots. But I think if you're expecting and excited for a fluffy, feel-good romance, Romancing the Grump would be perfect to pick up! It's very binge-able and has an adorable, sweet romance. Don't hesitate on this next Jenny Proctor book!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 4
Character Development: 4
Overall: 4

Thank you, Jenny Proctor, for the arc!
Releases April 23, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: workplace harassment, death of a parent (recounted), alcoholism, kisses